JP6009460B2 - Grafting elements, systems and methods for joining stem parts of seedlings using such grafting elements, and systems and methods for preparing such grafting elements - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a graft element for joining together several stem parts of a seedling. The invention further relates to a system and method for preparing such a graft element. Finally, the present invention preferably relates to a system and method for joining together several stem parts of a seedling by such grafting elements.

  In the fields of horticulture and fruit tree cultivation, it is well known that the seedling parts of the preferred species can be transplanted into the more cold-resistant seed parts. And seedlings having such a desirable seed quality grow while enjoying benefits such as resistance to cold-resistant seed disease. The part of the seedling that is preferred to be grafted is referred to as hogi. The part of the cold-tolerant plant on which the hogi is grafted is generally called a rootstock.

  For a given type of seedling, the graft is systematic. Almost all rose saplings consist of selected species of spikelets grafted on cold-resistant rootstocks. Vineyards are also commonly grafted. The process of grafting usually involves selecting appropriate panicle parts and rootstock parts, and cutting these parts, for example, vertically or at an oblique angle, and joining the faces of the grafts together. Including. The grafting process is generally labor intensive.

  And the graft must be well held or supported so that the two parts grow together. In addition, grafts should be protected from the environment as needed to prevent infection and damage. A conventional graft element used to hold the two parts together is a clothespin that applies pressure to the graft. However, such clothespins are relatively heavy for small seedlings, especially non-woody plants, and each clothespin is relatively expensive. Furthermore, the overall success rate is low, leading to considerable waste of seedlings, labor and space.

  French Patent No. 2669623 discloses a clip made of an elastic material for grafting purposes. The clip is in the form of a slotted tube that can be opened and closed around the stem. The clip can also receive support elements such as sticks and splints and can assist in supporting the graft. The clips are much lighter than clothespins and are suitable for use on soft stem seedlings, such as tomato seedlings. Nevertheless, placing such clips individually by hand takes time and promotes the spread of seedling diseases.

  WO 95/21520 discloses the use of a rollable sleeve for grafting purposes. The sleeve is made of an elastic material. The sleeve is initially in the form of a ring and is then deployed to cover the graft. Although the sleeve appears to be an improvement over the use of clothespins, its manufacture and deployment are relatively complex.

  Another example of prior art grafting elements suitable for manual deployment can be found in JP 2008-263878.

French Patent No. 2693623 International Publication No. 95/21520 JP 2008-263878 A

  In view of the problems associated with the prior art, it is desirable to provide an alternative procedure for grafting. In particular, there is a need for a grafting device that can easily and efficiently graft seedlings of relatively soft stems. Further, there is a need for a graft element that can be easily applied and supports and protects the graft during the time it takes to cure the graft, and that can be removed relatively easily. The grafting procedure should be performed quickly and easily while ensuring a successful grafting success.

  For this purpose, one embodiment of the present invention is a graft element for joining together several stem parts of a seedling, the graft element being made of an elastic material and forming a cylinder In the form of a tubular structure having a hollow center extending in the longitudinal direction of the graft element, the graft element further being connected to the hollow center over the entire length of the graft element A side opening along the side and two elongate members opposite the side opening and oriented substantially parallel thereto, the elongate member having a notch for receiving a grip unit Provides the grafted elements that are The graft elements can be easily applied without damaging the stalks of the seedlings. In addition, the graft provides sufficient support to keep the graft in place. Through the use of an elastic material, the graft can adjust its form to the stem it surrounds. If the shape of the graft element is adjusted for the placement of the stem in the graft element, the use of an elastic material allows the graft element to surround the stem and return to its basic shape as much as possible. The side openings allow excess liquid produced by the rootstock to escape from the graft in a relatively simple manner, eliminating stem rot and thus improving the quality of the grafting process.

  The notch in the elongated member may take the form of a groove, for example a wedge-shaped groove or a tube.

  In some embodiments, the cylinder has a substantially circular cross section. Such a cross-section is easy to manufacture and can be applied to many types of seedling grafts.

  In some embodiments, the width of the side opening near the inner surface of the cylinder is smaller than the width near the outer surface of the graft element. In some of these further embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the side opening is generally wedge-shaped. By using this type of side opening, a relatively large surface area can be used to keep the graft in place and the liquid produced by the rootstock can be removed relatively easily. .

  Embodiments of the invention further relate to a method for joining together several stem parts of a seedling by means of grafting elements as described above. The method is to provide the graft element by a gripping device having two grip units provided with an extension, the grip unit holding the graft element and resisting the repulsive force of the elastic material Providing a grafting element by a gripping device, configured to controllably open the side opening, providing a stem of the rootstock to be grafted; Positioning the rootstock stem and the scion stem on the graft element by pressing the stem through the side opening with a stem positioning device to form a graft.

  Embodiments of the present invention further relate to a system for joining together several stem parts of a seedling by means of grafting elements as described above. The system is grafted with two gripping units provided with extensions, configured to hold the graft element and to controllably open the side opening against the repulsive force of an elastic material. A rootstock holding device for providing a stem of the rootstock, a panty holding device for providing a stem of the grafted graft, and the stem positioning device passing through the side opening to form a graft. A stem positioning device for positioning the stems of the rootstock and the stems of the scion by pressing the stems;

  In some embodiments, the stem positioning device comprises a push unit for pressing the rootstock stem and the panicle stem toward the graft element, the push unit comprising the stem The direction is substantially parallel to the main direction. The push unit has the effect that the stem is further directed in the direction towards the graft element. For further refinement of the position of the stem within the grafting element, the stem positioning unit can further comprise a press unit that applies pressure to the stem in place, this press unit being oriented substantially perpendicular to the push unit. And move independently. The predetermined position can be a central portion of the graft element.

  Embodiments of the present invention further relate to a method for preparing a graft element as described above. The method comprises providing a string of material for the graft element, grasping the string portion, and cutting the string so that the graft element is formed. Preferably, the string is supplied so as to be substantially horizontal. Due to the horizontal supply of the strings, the supply is relatively independent of gravity, so that more reliable and accurate cutting is possible.

  In some embodiments, the gripping is complementary in shape to the gripping device having a graft element support unit having a support surface for supporting the string portion and the elongated member of the graft element formed. With the two gripping units provided in the extension portion, the method further includes moving the elongate members away from each other so that the strap portion is effectively clamped on the support surface.

  Embodiments of the present invention further relate to a system for preparing a graft element as described above. The system comprises a supply unit for supplying a string of material of the graft element, a grip device for gripping the string portion, and a cutting device for cutting the string so that the graft element is formed.

  In some embodiments, the gripping device includes a graft element support means having a support surface for supporting the string portion, and an extension portion having a shape complementary to the elongated member of the graft element to be formed. Two grip units provided, wherein the grip unit is configured to move the elongate member away from each other so that the string portion is effectively clamped on the support surface.

  Preferably, the support surface is a concave surface having a smaller curvature than that of the back surface of the string portion. The use of such a surface can ensure that the string portion is effectively clamped during the cutting performed by the cutting device.

  Embodiments of the present invention further relate to a method for joining together multiple stem portions of a seedling by a grafting element. The method is to provide a stem of the rootstock to be grafted, the stem of the rootstock having an end of the rootstock for receiving the stem of the spikelet, Providing a stem of the rootstock to be grafted, having an end of the panicle for receiving the stem of the rootstock, so that the end of the rootstock is higher than the end of the panicle, Positioning these stems close to each other and moving the rootstock stem and the stem of the scion at a height between the end of the rootstock and the end of the panicle in a single movement Cutting, positioning the rootstock and the stalk stem on top of each other, and providing a graft element around the cut stem.

  Cutting the rootstock stem and the panicle stem with a single movement is performed with a cutting blade that cuts the stem at an angle of 0 ° to 60 ° in a direction substantially perpendicular to the orientation of the stem. be able to. The optimum cutting angle can vary depending on the type of seedling to be grafted.

  Embodiments of the present invention further relate to a system for joining together multiple stem portions of seedlings by grafting elements. This system comprises a rootstock holding device for providing a stem of the rootstock to be grafted, wherein the rootstock stem has an end of the rootstock for receiving the panicle; A sapling holding device for providing a stalk of a stalk to be grafted, having an end of a stalk for receiving a stalk of the tree, and an end of the rootstock higher than an end of the sap As shown, comprising a stalk holding device for positioning the rootstock stem and the stalk stem close to each other, a cutting unit, and a device for providing graft elements, the cutting unit comprising: And configured to cut the rootstock stalk and the stalk stem at a height between the end of the rootstock and the end of the scion in a single movement, the control unit comprising: Furthermore, after cutting, the rootstock holding to position the rootstock stem and the panicle stem on top of each other Is arranged to control said the location scion holding device.

  The cutting unit may be a cutting blade having an orientation of 0 ° to 60 ° in an orientation substantially perpendicular to the orientation of the stem to be cut.

  Various aspects of the invention will now be described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings.

FIG. 1A schematically shows a graft element according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1B is a diagram schematically showing a graft element according to another embodiment of the present invention. 2A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a graft element preparation system for preparing the graft elements of FIG. 2B is a perspective view of one embodiment of a graft element preparation system for preparing the graft elements of FIG. 2C is a perspective view of one embodiment of a graft element preparation system for preparing the graft elements of FIG. FIG. 3 shows in more detail the cutting device in the preparation system of FIGS. 2A to 2C. FIG. 4A is a top view schematically illustrating a graft element preparation procedure executed using the graft element preparation apparatus. FIG. 4B is a top view schematically illustrating a graft element preparation procedure executed using the graft element preparation apparatus. FIG. 4C is a top view schematically illustrating a graft element preparation procedure executed using the graft element preparation apparatus. FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a structure for performing a graft application procedure according to an embodiment of the present invention at a certain stage in the procedure. FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a structure for performing a graft application procedure according to an embodiment of the present invention at a certain stage in the procedure. FIG. 6A is a diagram schematically illustrating a side surface of the stem positioning device. FIG. 6B is a diagram schematically illustrating a side surface of the grip unit that holds the graft element. FIG. 7A is a diagram schematically illustrating a stage in a procedure for applying a graft element. FIG. 7B is a diagram schematically illustrating a stage in the procedure for applying a graft element. FIG. 7C is a diagram schematically illustrating a stage in the procedure for applying the graft element. FIG. 7D is a diagram schematically showing a stage in the procedure for applying the graft element. FIG. 7E is a diagram schematically illustrating a stage in a procedure for applying a graft element. FIG. 7F is a diagram schematically showing a stage in the procedure for applying the graft element. FIG. 7G is a diagram schematically showing a stage in the procedure for applying the graft element. FIG. 7H is a diagram schematically illustrating a stage in a procedure for applying a graft element. FIG. 8 is a view schematically showing a side surface of a seedling provided with a graft element after use after the procedure of FIGS. 7A to 7H. FIG. 9A is a perspective side view schematically showing a system for joining together stem portions of a seedling according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9B is a side view schematically illustrating a portion of the system of FIG. 9A. FIG. 9C is a side view schematically showing a grip unit for holding a stem portion. FIG. 10A is a perspective side view schematically illustrating a portion of the system of FIG. 9A at the stage of joining the stalk portions of seedlings together. FIG. 10B is a perspective side view schematically illustrating a portion of the system of FIG. 9A at the stage of joining the stalk portions of seedlings together. FIG. 10C is a perspective side view schematically illustrating a portion of the system of FIG. 9A at the stage of joining the stalk portions of seedlings together. FIG. 10D is a side view schematically illustrating the system of FIG. 9A when a graft is formed. FIG. 11A is a diagram schematically showing a structure for cutting a stem portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11B is a diagram schematically showing a structure for cutting a stem portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11C is a diagram schematically showing a structure for cutting a stem portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The following is a description of various embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only and with reference to the drawings.

  1A and 1B are diagrams schematically showing a graft element 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The graft element 1 is made of an elastic material, for example, an elastomer material such as silicone. Other examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, low density polyethylene (LDPE), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and liquid silicone rubber (LSR). Preferably, the length of the graft element is set to provide sufficient support with as little material as possible. A typical length of the graft element 1 is about 6 to 16 mm, preferably about 8 to 14 mm, more preferably about 10 to 12 mm. For example, for tomato seedlings, a size of 12 mm has been found to give good results.

  The graft element 1 takes the form of a tubular structure having a hollow center extending in the longitudinal direction of the graft element so as to form a cylinder 2. In the description herein, the expression “cylinder” refers to two substantially parallel ends of similar cross-sectional size and shape that are connected to each other over a predetermined distance that is larger than the cross-sectional dimension at both ends. Reference is made to the structure it has.

  The graft element 1 further has a side opening 3 along its length, which is connected to the cylinder 2. As a result, the outer surface of the graft element 1 is connected to the inner surface of the cylinder 2 over the entire length of the graft element 1. The side openings 3 are preferably narrow near the central cylinder 2 and become wider outward in the radial direction. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the side opening can be substantially wedge-shaped.

  The cylinder 2 is configured to insert the cut stem of the rootstock through the side opening 3 so that the stem of the rootstock extends through one end of the cylinder 2. The cylinder 2 is further configured to insert the cut stalk through the side opening 3 such that the stalk stem extends through the other end of the cylinder 2. The dimensions of the cylinder 2 are set so as to substantially coincide with the minimum values of the stem stem dimensions and the spike stem dimensions. These dimensions ensure that the graft element 1 exerts pressure on the graft that is formed.

  Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the cylinder 2 substantially corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the stem to be grafted. Since many stems have a substantially circular shape, such a shape is preferably used for the cross-sectional shape of the cylinder 2. The circular shape has the advantage that the pressure spreads evenly on the inner surface of the cylinder. In addition, the substantially circular shape directs pressure radially inward, improving the stability of the graft. A cylinder 2 having a non-circular cross-section, such as an oval, rectangular, square, or cross-section having other polygonal shapes such as hexagons and octagons, in particular, has a non-circular shape corresponding to the stem. Note that it can be used if it has enough shape.

  The side openings 3 can not only be used during the graft application procedure, but also allow moisture to escape from the graft after placement, as will be described in more detail below. This will reduce the possibility of stem deterioration.

  Furthermore, the graft element 1 is provided with two elongate members facing the side opening 3 on the side opposite to each other and substantially parallel thereto. These elongated members are provided with notches for receiving the grip unit, as will be described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C.

  In FIG. 1A, the notches in the elongated member take the form of grooves 4a, 4b. If the notch takes the form of grooves 4a, 4b, the cross-sectional shape of the grooves 4a, 4b is preferably substantially wedge-shaped as shown in FIG. 1A, but different shapes can be realized as well. is there.

  In FIG. 1B, the notch in the elongated member takes the form of tubes 5a, 5b.

  The side of the graft element 1 in which the side openings 3 and the elongated members are located is further referred to as the front face. The other side is referred to as the back side. Embodiments of the present invention are further described with reference to the embodiment of the graft element 1 shown in FIG. 1A.

  2A-2C are schematic three different perspective views of one embodiment of a graft element preparation system 10 for preparing the graft elements of FIG. 1A. The preparation unit 10 has a string supply unit (not shown) for supplying a string made of a material on which a string 11 or a graft element is formed. The string supply unit can take the form of a coil around which the string is wound. The string of graft element material has a shape similar to the graft element, except that the string is much longer. The string can be guided, for example, by the pulley 12 and the guide unit 13 toward the graft element gripping device 20 that cooperates with the cutting device 15. The guide unit may take the form of a U-shaped surface opposite to where the plate is disposed. The back side of the graft element to be formed is then guided while sliding on the U-shaped surface, while ensuring that the plate engages the opening and the string 11 does not rotate during the feeding movement.

  Preferably, as shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C, the string 11 is provided in the grip device 20 in the horizontal direction. The expression “horizontal direction” corresponds to a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity. The horizontal supply has the effect that the supply can be more easily controlled in such a way that the tension in the cord 11 is less affected by gravity.

  The cutting device 15 has at least one cutting blade 16 for cutting the string 11 of graft element material. The length of the grafting element can be pre-programmed for the specific type of seedling to be processed or can be manipulated by the computer controlling the grafting and can depend on the particular grafting that is covered by the grafting element 1 .

  The graft element gripping device 20 includes a main body 21, a graft element supporting unit 22 connected to the main body, and two grip units 24. The graft element gripping device 20 further includes a controllable framework that moves the grip unit 24 to the side and rotates the grip units 24 relative to each other.

  The cutting device 15 and the graft element gripping device 20 cooperate so that the graft element 1 as described with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B can be formed.

  FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the cutting device, with the cutting blade 16 removed for clarity. As shown in FIG. 3, the cutting device 15 has a fixing unit 18 for fixing the string 11 during cutting. When the string 11 needs to be cut, the fixing unit 18 is configured to move with respect to each other substantially in the horizontal direction. The outer shape of each fixing unit 18 has an extension portion 19 having a height slightly lower than the height of the string 11. The extension portion 19 applies a force on the string 11 to effectively fix the position of the string 11. By fixing the movement of the string 11 at the time of cutting, the movement of the string is minimized, and accurate and reliable cutting is possible.

  4A to 4C are top views schematically showing application procedures of graft elements that can be performed in the graft element preparation system 10 shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C. In this procedure, the graft element gripping device 20 is used.

  As schematically shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C, each grip unit 24 is further provided with an extended portion called a beak 31. The hook-shaped part 31 has a shape that is complementary, i.e. adapted to the size and shape of the elongated member of the graft element 1 to be prepared. For example, in the case of tubes 5a, 5b, the elongate member can have pins that fit the tube. In the case of the grooves 4a, 4b, as will be explained below, the extension part has a size and shape substantially the same as the size and shape of the grooves 4a, 4b alongside the side openings of the cord 11 of the graft element material. is there. A controllable framework for controlling the movement of the grip unit 24 is schematically shown and indicated by reference numeral 33.

  In FIG. 4A, the cord 11 of the graft element material is on the upper surface of the graft element support surface of the graft element support unit 22. The shape of the surface is concave. Preferably, the curvature of the front surface is smaller than the curvature of the back surface of the string 11 of the material of the graft element. At least at the position where the material of the graft element is to be arranged, the thickness of the support unit 22 (the dimension in the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 4A) is approximately the same length as the prepared graft element 1. is there. The same holds for the saddle-like part 31, preferably for the grip unit 24. The material of the graft element is provided by the string feeder, for example by allowing the string movement by rewound the string of graft element material back into the coil at a suitable length, for example 12 mm.

  After placing the graft element material string 11 on the concave surface of the support unit 22, the grip unit 24 is attached to the support unit such that the extension 31 of the grip unit 24 engages the groove of the graft element material string 11. Move towards. This situation is shown schematically in FIG. 4B.

  And the grip unit 24 is rotated with respect to each other by appropriately controlled movement so that the grooves 4a, 4b are separated from each other. As a result, the side openings 3 expand so that the central part of the cord 11 of the material of the graft element is more easily accessible via the side openings 3. This situation is shown schematically in FIG. 4C. Furthermore, the curvature of the back surface of the string 11 decreases due to the outward movement of the grooves 4a and 4b. Preferably, the outward movement is set so that the curvature resulting from the back surface of the string 11 is substantially the same as the curvature of the concave surface of the support unit 22. In such a case, the outer surface of the graft element material tension is in full contact with the support surface of the graft element support unit, and the string 11 is effectively clamped to the support unit 22.

  For this reason, the graft element string 11 is preferably cut at this stage by a cutting device 15 (not shown). The cutting device detaches a part of the material of the graft element supported by the support unit 22 of the grip device 20 from the remaining part of the string 11 of the graft element material. As a result, the graft element 1 having a predetermined length is formed.

  The graft element preparation system described above has the advantage that the graft elements can be prepared in-situ without the need for complex sorting and pick-up techniques. Furthermore, the preparation is reliable and reproducible, and the system components can be easily maintained.

  After formation, the gripping device 20 moves the graft element 1 toward where the graft element is applied to the rootstock and the hogi to form the graft. This movement can include translational movement, rotational movement, or both.

  5A and 5B are perspective views showing a structure for performing the procedure for applying the graft according to one embodiment of the present invention at two different stages in the procedure. In FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, the grip apparatus 20 performs a rotational movement exceeding about 90 degrees. As a result, the graft element 1 has a substantially vertical orientation. The expression “perpendicular” corresponds to a direction substantially coincident with the direction of gravity. It should be understood that the 90 ° movement of the vertical plane is, of course, merely a design choice. The supply of grafting elements can be vertical and the rotational movement can be a 45, 90, or 180 degree rotation in the horizontal plane. Other designs can be considered as well.

  FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating a state before application of a graft. The grip apparatus 20 arranges the graft elements near the rootstock 41 and the hogi 42 to be joined to each other. The rootstock 41 and the hogi 42 are supported by respective support units. The support unit is not shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B to avoid complicating the drawing. The grip device 20 is further arranged so that the opening in the graft element 11 formed by the grip unit 24 faces the stem positioning device 45 that is part of the graft application device 40.

  FIG. 5B is a diagram showing a state in which the stem positioning device 45 arranges the stem 41 and the scion 42 on the graft elements held by the grip unit 24.

  FIG. 6A is a side view schematically showing the stem positioning device 45 as seen from the graft element 11 at the stage shown in FIG. 5A. The stem positioning device 45 includes a main body referred to as a push unit 51 and a press unit 52. The press unit 52 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the main direction of the push unit 51 and can move independently of it. In general, further details regarding the orientation of the stem positioning device 45, push unit 51, and press unit 52 will be described with particular reference to FIGS. 7A-7H.

  FIG. 6B is a side view schematically showing the grip unit 24 holding the graft element 1 as seen from the stem positioning device 45 at the stage shown in FIG. 5A. The grip unit 24 has an inner slit 55 that at least partially accommodates the push unit 51 of the stem positioning device 45. Furthermore, preferably the press unit 52 is aligned with the center of the graft element 1. Further details regarding the cooperation of the gripping device 20 and the stem positioning device 45 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7A-7H.

  7A-7H schematically illustrate various stages of a grafting element application procedure using the setup shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B.

  FIG. 7A shows the starting point. The graft element 1 held by the grip unit 24 faces the push unit 51 of the stem positioning device 45 between the rootstock stem 41 and the scion stem 42.

  The gripping device 20 then moves towards these stems 41, 42 so that both stems are captured in the space between the grip units 24. This state is shown in FIG. 7B, which is similar to the state shown in FIG. 5A. In this particular case, one stem has already been placed in the center of the graft element 1, while the other stem 42 is outside the area covered by the graft element 1. Note that it is not essential that one stem is already located in the center of the graft element 1 at this stage of the procedure. The stems 41, 42 need not be caught so that they are located in the space between the grip units 24.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 7C, the push unit 51 moves toward the graft element 1. It is ensured that the push unit 51 slides through the slits 55 (boundary lines indicated by broken lines) of the grip unit 24 so that the scrub 42 is pressed toward the center of the graft element 1. Preferably, the dimensions of push unit 51 and slit 55 are designed to leave the minimum space available between them. Such a minimum space avoids the risk of the stem portion moving between the push unit 51 and the grip unit 24 so that the stem may be damaged.

  Preferably, at this stage, the ridges 31 of the grip unit 24 rotate slightly towards each other, for example about 4 degrees, to reduce the opening 3 of the grafting element 1 and to Press in the direction as shown schematically in FIG. 7D. The opening of the grafting element 1 is preferably set so that the press unit 52 can just pass through.

  Of course, as described with reference to FIG. 7C, it is possible instead to move the push unit 51 and to obtain the same result, alternatively or gradually, FIG. As described with reference, it is possible to perform inward rotation of the bowl-shaped portion 31.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 7E, the press unit 52 moves through the opening 3 in the grafting element 1 to press the stem so that both stems are aligned with each other at the center of the grafting element 1. To do.

  At this stage, the grip unit 24 releases the graft element 1 by removing the hook-like portions from the grooves 4a, 4b. The pressure applied by the press unit 52 keeps the stems 41, 42 in place against the graft element 1.

  Subsequently, as schematically shown in FIG. 7F, the gripping device 20 can move away from the graft element 1.

  Then, the press unit 52 is retracted. Preferably, the push unit 51 maintains its position to avoid undesired movement of the graft element 1 and is in the state shown in FIG. 7G.

  Finally, as shown in FIG. 7H, both push unit 51 and press unit 52 are retracted leaving two stems 41, 42 provided with grafting element 1, thus forming a graft.

  Instead of the sequence shown in FIGS. 7F to 7H, an alternative retraction procedure may be performed. For example, the first press unit 52 can be retracted by the grip unit 24 following further closing of the opening angle. Then, the push unit 51 is retracted following the release of the graft element 1 by the hook-shaped portion 31, and the subsequent retraction is continued by the grip device 20.

  FIG. 8 is a side view schematically showing a seedling provided with the graft element 1 after use after the procedure of FIGS. 7A to 7H. The grafting element 1 effectively joins the rootstock stem 41 together with the scion stem 42. In FIG. 8, during the grafting process, the grafted seedling whose stem portion is held by the rootstock holding device 71 and the spikelet holding device 72 is supported under the rootstock 41 by a separate support member (not shown). Can be done. Such a support member can be movable, for example, in a carousel or on a conveyor belt. It should also be understood that other support methods are possible as well.

  FIG. 9A is a perspective view showing a system 80 for joining together multiple stalk portions of a seedling according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 9A, the system 80 includes a rootstock holding device 71, a hogi holding device 72, and a control unit 90 for controlling these holding devices 71 and 72. Furthermore, the system 80 has a cutting unit and a device for providing a graft element.

  FIG. 9B schematically illustrates a side view of a portion of the system of FIG. 9A. The illustrated portion shows a rootstock holding device 71 that holds a stem 41 to be grafted, and a spikelet holding device that holds the stem of the earwood 42 to be grafted. Both stems 41, 42 are almost upright, i.e. held in a vertical position. Both stems are preferably pre-cut. For this purpose, the system can have a pre-cutting assembly for cutting at least one of the rootstock stem 71 and the panicle stem 72 prior to the method of joining stem parts as described. .

  The control unit 85 is arranged to control the rootstock holding device 71 and the hotwood holding device 72 with respect to each other. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9B, the hogi holding device 72 is movable in a substantially horizontal direction using a cylinder 84. The extension of the hogi holding device 72 can be limited by the limited size of the cylinder 84. One embodiment of a portion of the safflower holding device 72 that can be used in embodiments of the present invention is shown and described with reference to FIG. 9C. The system 80 further includes a stem adjustment device for centering the stems 41, 42 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the depicted plane. In other words, the stem adjusting device 82 can limit the lateral movement of the stems 41 and 42. By positioning the stems 41, 42 in a line substantially parallel to the holding elements of the holding devices 71, 72, the cutting accuracy is improved. The alignment of the stems 41, 42 relative to each other in a given direction is more predictable and the cutting unit can predict such an arrangement. In particular, the stem adjustment device 82 can have leaf springs that can be opposed to each other in the open and closed positions. While in the closed position, the leaf spring clamps the stems 41, 42 in a predictable manner. Further details for one embodiment of the stem adjustment device 82 are provided with reference to FIGS. 11A-11C.

  FIG. 9C is a top view schematically showing a part of the holding device which is the hogi holding device 72 in this embodiment. Hereinafter, the term “grip unit 87” refers to the illustrated part. The grip unit 87 has two grip elements 86a and 86b that form hook-shaped portions at their ends. The grip elements 86a, 86b can be moved towards each other and away from each other, for example under the control of the control unit 90, so that the saddle-like part can be in the open or closed position. it can. The stem 42 is disposed between the grip elements 86a, 86b, and after the grip elements 86a, 86b move toward each other, their ends meet and the stalk 42 protrudes through the slit-shaped opening. Until they are separated. The grip unit 87 further includes a press member 88 provided with an elastic end portion 89. The press member 88 is arranged to move along the length of the slit-like opening, thereby reducing or increasing the cross-sectional area of the opening. In particular, after placing the stem 42 between the grip elements 86a, 86b such that the stem 42 protrudes through the opening, the stem 42 is between the end portion 89 of the press member 88 and the inner surface of the grip elements 86a, 86b. It can be moved towards the stem 42 until it is effectively clamped, for example under the control of the control unit 90. When the stalk 42 is effectively clamped, the control unit moves the stalk 42 clamped toward the rootstock stalk 41 held by the rootstock holding device 71 so as to move the stalk holder 42. 72 can be commanded.

  10A-10C are perspective side views schematically illustrating a portion of the system of FIG. 9A at various stages, joining multiple stalk portions of seedlings together. In FIG. 10A, the rootstock stem 41 and the spikelet stem 42 are arranged adjacent to each other by the movement of the spikelet holding device 72 toward the rootstock holding device 71 that holds the rootstock stem 41. Preferably, the stalk 42 moves toward the stalk 41 until the stalk 41 contacts the stalk 42. The stems 41 and 42 are further arranged so that the end of the rootstock hanging downward is positioned at a higher height than the end of the scion facing upward. In FIG. 10A, these stems 41 and 42 are cut | disconnected by the cutting blade 95 which is a part of cutting unit. The cutting blade 95 cuts these stems 41 and 42 with a single movement at a height between the end of the rootstock and the end of the hogi. By cutting both stems 41, 42 with a single cutting movement, the ends of both stems are cut in the same orientation. As a result, both cuts engage with each other very accurately. This close engagement improves the accuracy of the graft and can increase the likelihood of the graft being successful. Preferably, both stems 41, 42 are cut under a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal direction, ie under a predetermined angle with respect to a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of these stems 41, 42. . The angle of the cutting blade 95 is preferably adjustable. The optimal cutting angle may vary depending on the type of seedling to be grafted. The angle is preferably 0 to 60 ° with respect to a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of the stems 41, 42.

  In FIG. 10B, the cut ends of the cut rootstock stem 41 and the cut ear stem 72 are arranged on top of each other. In one embodiment, both holding devices 71, 72 have a grip unit similar to the grip unit 87 shown in FIG. 9C. Hogi holding device 72 is movable as described above, while rootstock holding device 71 is fixed in position. For example, the extension where the stalk 72 can be moved by appropriately sizing the cylinder 84 is such that the position of the inner surface of the hooked portion of the stalk holder 72 in the fully extended position is It can be designed to be aligned with the position of the inner surface of the bowl-shaped part in the closed position of the rootstock holding device 71.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 10C, a graft element 100 is provided around the ends 41, 42 of the cut stem, thereby forming a graft. The graft element 100 can be the graft element 1 as described with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B. In such a case, as shown in FIG. 10C, an apparatus for providing a graft element can have a gripping device 20 having two grip units 24 provided with extensions. The grip unit 24 is configured to hold the graft element and controllably open the side opening 3 of the graft element 1 against the repulsive force of the elastic material.

  FIG. 10D shows a side view of the final system 80, with the grafting element 100 being used to graft the rootstock to the rootstock.

  11A to 11C are various views schematically showing a structure for cutting a stem portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11A is a top view showing stems 41, 42 and a cutting blade 95 that is part of a cutting unit, arranged to cut stems 41, 42 in a single cutting movement.

  FIG. 11B is a diagram showing a side view of the structure of FIG. 11A viewed from the direction of the arrow along the XIB-XIB ′ line of FIG. 11A. The cutting blade 95 is configured to cut the stem at an angle α. The angle α is preferably 0 ° to 60 ° with respect to a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the stems 41 and 42. The optimum angle α can depend on the type of seedling to be grafted.

  FIG. 11C is a diagram showing a side view of the structure of FIG. 11A as viewed from the direction of the arrow along the XIC-XIC ′ line. As already described with reference to FIG. 10A, FIG. 11C shows that the end of the rootstock extends over the end of the scion. The cutting blade 95 is configured to cut the stem at a height between both ends. Cutting both stems 41, 42 in a single movement ensures that they have stem ends cut in the same orientation. As a result, the cut stems engage very well with each other.

The invention has been described with reference to the specific embodiments described above. It will be appreciated that these embodiments are capable of various modifications and substitutions known to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, although specific embodiments have been described, these are examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
The matters described in the claims at the beginning of the application are appended as they are.
[1] A graft element (1) for joining a plurality of stem parts of a seedling together,
This grafting element is made of an elastic material and takes the form of a tubular structure having a hollow center extending in the longitudinal direction of the grafting element so as to form a cylinder (2),
This grafting element is
A side opening (3) along its length, connected to the hollow center over the entire length of the graft element;
A graft element (1) comprising two elongate members on opposite sides of said side opening and oriented substantially parallel thereto, said elongate member having a notch for receiving a grip unit ).
[2] The graft element according to [1], wherein the notch of the elongated member takes the form of a groove (4a, 4b).
[3] The graft element according to [2], wherein the cross-sectional shape of the groove is substantially wedge-shaped.
[4] The graft element according to [1], wherein the notch of the elongated member takes the form of a tube.
[5] The graft element according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the cylinder has a substantially circular cross section.
[6] The graft element according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein a width of the side opening close to the inner surface of the cylinder is smaller than a width in the vicinity of the outer surface of the graft element.
[7] The graft element according to [6], wherein the lateral opening of the side opening has a substantially wedge shape.
[8] A method for joining together the stem parts of a seedling by means of a graft element (1),
Providing a grafting element by means of a gripping device (20) having two gripping units (24) provided with an extension (31), said gripping unit (24) comprising:
Two grip units with an extension (31) configured to hold the graft element and controllably open the side opening (3) against the repulsive force of the elastic material ( Providing a graft element by a gripping device (20) having 24),
Giving the stem (41) of the rootstock to be grafted;
Giving the stalk (42) to be grafted;
Positioning the stem of the rootstock and the stem of the scion into the graft element by pressing the stem through the side opening (3) by a stem positioning device (45) so as to form a graft. A method comprising:
[9] The method according to [8], further comprising maintaining the stem of the rootstock and the scion in place by applying pressure to the stem with the stem positioning device.
[10] The method according to [9], wherein the predetermined position is a central part of the graft element.
[11] A system for joining a plurality of stem parts of a seedling together by the graft element (1) according to any one of [1] to [7],
Two grip units (24) provided with an extension (31) and configured to hold the graft element and controllably open the side opening (3) against the repulsive force of the elastic material A gripping device (20) having
A rootstock holding device (71) for providing a stem (41) of the rootstock to be grafted;
A sapling holding device (72) for providing a stalk (42) to be grafted;
By pressing the stem through the side opening (3) so as to form a graft,
A system comprising a stem positioning device (45) for positioning the rootstock stem and the panicle stem on the graft element.
[12] The stem positioning device has a push unit (51) for pressing the stem,
The system according to [11], wherein the push unit has an orientation substantially parallel to a main direction of the stem.
[13] The stem positioning unit further includes a push unit (52) for applying pressure to the rootstock stem and the panicle stem at a predetermined position,
The system of [12], wherein the push unit is oriented substantially perpendicular to the push unit and is independently movable.
[14] The system according to [13], wherein the predetermined position is a central part of the graft element.
[15] A method for preparing the graft element (1) according to any one of [1] to [7],
Supplying a string (11) of material for the graft elements;
Gripping the string part,
Cutting the string so that a graft element is formed,
The gripping includes two grip units provided with a graft element support unit having a support surface for supporting the string portion and an extension portion having a shape complementary to the elongated member of the graft element to be formed. And is performed by a grip device having
The method further includes moving the elongate members away from each other such that the strap portion is effectively clamped to the support surface.
[16] The method according to [15], wherein the support surface is a concave surface having a curvature smaller than a curvature of a back surface of the string portion.
[17] A system (10) for preparing the graft element (1) according to any one of [1] to [7],
A supply unit for supplying a string (11) of material of the graft element;
A grip device (20) for gripping the string portion;
A cutting device (15) for cutting the string so that the graft element is formed;
The grip device is
A graft element support unit having a support surface for supporting the string portion;
Two grip units (24) provided with an extension (31) of a shape complementary to the elongated member of the graft element to be formed,
The grip unit is so that the string portion is effectively clamped to the support surface,
A system configured to move the elongate members away from each other.
[18] The system according to [17], wherein the support surface is a concave surface having a curvature smaller than a curvature of a back surface of the string portion.
[19] A method of joining together multiple stem parts of a seedling by a graft element,
Providing a grafted rootstock stem (41) having an end of the rootstock for receiving the panicle stem (42);
Providing a grafted panicle stem (42) having an end of the panicle for receiving the rootstock stem (41);
Positioning the stems adjacent to each other such that the end of the rootstock is positioned higher than the end of the scion;
Cutting the stem to the same height between the end of the rootstock and the end of the hogi, and positioning the stem of the rootstock and the hogi on top of each other;
Providing a graft element around the cut stem.
[20] The method according to [19], wherein cutting the stem is performed with a cutting blade that cuts the stem at an angle of 0 ° to 60 ° with respect to a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the stem.
[21] The graft element is any one of [1] to [7],
Providing the graft element is performed by a gripping device (20) having two grip units (24) provided with an extension (31),
The grip unit (24) is configured to hold the graft element and controllably open the side opening (3) against the repulsive force of an elastic material [19] or [20]. the method of.
[22] A system for joining together multiple stem parts of a seedling by a graft element,
A rootstock holding device (71) for providing a stem of the rootstock to be grafted, wherein the rootstock stem has an end of the rootstock for receiving the scion;
A sapling holding device (72) for providing a stalk of the stalk to be grafted, the end of the stalk for receiving the stem of the rootstock,
The rootstock holding device (71) for positioning the rootstock stem and the headstock stem close to each other so that the end of the rootstock is higher than the end of the panicle. And a control unit for controlling the hogi holding device (72),
A cutting unit;
A device for providing a graft element;
The cutting unit is configured to cut the stem of the rootstock and the stem of the panicle at a predetermined height between the end of the rootstock and the end of the panicle,
The control unit is further arranged to control the rootstock holding device and the earstock holding device to position the rootstock and the earphone stem on top of each other after cutting. system.
[23] The system according to [22], wherein the cutting unit includes a cutting blade having an angle of 0 ° to 60 ° with respect to a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction of a stem to be cut.
[24] The graft element is the graft element of any one of [1] to [7],
The device for providing the graft element comprises a grip device (20) having two grip units (24) provided with an extension (31),
The grip unit (24) is configured to hold the graft element and controllably open the side opening (3) against the repulsive force of an elastic material [22] or [23]. System.

Claims (18)

A graft element (1) for joining together several stem parts of a seedling,
This grafting element is made of an elastic material and takes the form of a tubular structure having a hollow center extending in the longitudinal direction of the grafting element so as to form a cylinder (2),
This grafting element is
A side opening (3) along its length connected to the hollow center over the entire length of the graft element;
Two elongate members on opposite sides of the side opening and oriented substantially parallel thereto, the elongate member being provided with a notch, the side opening being in the notch Grafting element (1) that is expandable under the influence of the engaging grip unit . The graft element according to claim 1 , wherein the notch in the elongated member takes the form of a groove (4a, 4b). The graft element according to claim 2 , wherein a cross-sectional shape of the groove is substantially wedge-shaped. The graft element according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the cylinder has a substantially circular cross section . The width of the side opening near the inner surface of the cylinder is smaller than the width of the outer surface near the grafting component, grafting element according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The graft element according to claim 5, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the side opening is substantially a wedge shape. A method for joining together the stem parts of a seedling by means of a graft element (1),
7. The grafting device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein a gripping device (20) having two grip units (24) provided with an extension (31) provides the graft unit according to any one of the preceding claims. (24) is provided with an extension portion (31) configured to hold the graft element and controllably open the side opening (3) against the repulsive force of the elastic material Providing a graft element by means of a gripping device (20) having two gripping units (24);
Giving the stem (41) of the rootstock to be grafted;
Giving the stalk (42) to be grafted;
Positioning the stem of the rootstock and the stem of the scion into the graft element by pressing the stem through the side opening (3) by a stem positioning device (45) so as to form a graft. A method comprising: By applying pressure to the stem by the stem positioning device, further comprising maintaining the stem and the scion of the rootstock in place, the method according to claim 7. Positioning the stems adjacent to each other such that the end of the rootstock is positioned higher than the end of the scion;
  Cutting the stem to the same height between the end of the rootstock and the end of the hogi, and positioning the stem of the rootstock and the hogi on top of each other;
  9. The method of claim 7 or 8, further comprising providing a graft element around the cut stem. The method according to claim 7, wherein cutting the stem is performed with a cutting blade that cuts the stem at an angle of 0 ° to 60 ° with respect to an orientation substantially perpendicular to the orientation of the stem. A system for joining together a plurality of stem portions of the seedlings by grafting element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Two grip units (24) provided with an extension (31) and configured to hold the graft element and controllably open the side opening (3) against the repulsive force of the elastic material A gripping device (20) having
A rootstock holding device (71) for providing a stem (41) of the rootstock to be grafted;
A sapling holding device (72) for providing a stalk (42) to be grafted;
By pressing the stem through the side opening (3) so as to form a graft,
A system comprising a stem positioning device (45) for positioning the rootstock stem and the panicle stem on the graft element. The stem positioning device has a push unit (51) for pressing the stem,
The system of claim 11 , wherein the push unit has an orientation substantially parallel to a main direction of the stem. The stem positioning device further includes a press unit (52) for applying pressure to the stem of the rootstock and the stem of the scion at a predetermined position,
The system of claim 12 , wherein the press unit is oriented substantially perpendicular to the push unit and is independently movable. The stem of the rootstock has an end of the rootstock for receiving the scion, the stem of the scion has an end of the panicle for receiving the stem of the rootstock,
  The rootstock holding device (71) for positioning the rootstock stem and the headstock stem close to each other so that the end of the rootstock is higher than the end of the panicle. And a control unit for controlling the hogi holding device (72),
  A cutting unit,
  The cutting unit is configured to cut the stem of the rootstock and the stem of the panicle at a predetermined height between the end of the rootstock and the end of the panicle,
  The control unit is further arranged to control the rootstock holding device and the earstock holding device to position the rootstock and the earphone stem on top of each other after cutting. The system according to any one of claims 11 to 13. 12. A system according to claim 11, wherein the cutting unit has a cutting blade with an orientation of an angle between 0 ° and 60 ° with respect to an orientation substantially perpendicular to the orientation of the stem to be cut. A method of preparing a graft element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Supplying a string (11) of material for the graft elements;
Gripping the string part,
Cutting the string so that a graft element is formed,
The gripping includes two grip units provided with a graft element support unit having a support surface for supporting the string portion and an extension portion having a shape complementary to the elongated member of the graft element to be formed. And is performed by a grip device having
The method further includes moving the elongate members away from each other such that the strap portion is effectively clamped to the support surface. A system for preparing a graft element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 (10),
A supply unit for supplying a string (11) of material of the graft element;
A grip device (20) for gripping the string portion;
A cutting device (15) for cutting the string so that the graft element is formed;
The grip device is
A graft element support unit having a support surface for supporting the string portion;
Two grip units (24) provided with an extension (31) of a shape complementary to the elongated member of the graft element to be formed,
The grip unit is so that the string portion is effectively clamped to the support surface,
A system configured to move the elongate members away from each other. The system of claim 17 , wherein the support surface is a concave surface having a curvature that is less than a curvature of a back surface of the string portion.